The Capitol Expressway Light Rail Transit (LRT) line is an extension of the Santa Clara County Valley Transit Authority (VTA) rail transit network. The design called for a median running double tracked mainline that included two long viaducts, an elevated station, several grade level stations, a bus transfer station and a redesigned major arterial.

POITRA was asked to prepare a series of visual simulations to address anticipated visual impact and design concerns of public and local governmental stakeholders. Photo-simulation was the obvious medium for accurate and convincing presentations.

The Capitol Expressway alignment skirted a residential area along Capitol Drive before moving into a median running configuration on Capitol Expressway. Several visual simulations were needed to access the level of visual impact and inform area stakeholders of the proposal. The simulation would also show mitigation measures such as landcaping and ground covers.

POITRA artists created a custom 3D model of the Kinkisaryo LRTvehicle with VTA colors and markings.

POITRA often creates custom transit vehicles at no cost to the project.

Mouse-over images above to toggle between the existing photo and the photosimulation.

The Engineer provided a photograph that viewed the viaduct from within the neighborhood on Highwood drive. The view shows placement of landscape screening between the neighborhood and Capitol Expressway.

As always your simulations look perfect and thanks for the such great work on such short notice”

J.V., R.M. Inc
Consultant Project Manager

The base photograph needed minor edits such as plotting the viaduct shadow over existing parked cars and new curb and gutter. POITRA artists performed this work using traditional digital painting techniques.

The viaduct model POITRA created for preveous simulations was then camera matched, lighted, rendered and composited with the base photograph. The photo simulation was topped off with POITRA VTA LRT vehicle models and the proposed project landscaping.

The finished simulations were used in meetings with VTA Capitol Expressway Light Rail Project stakeholders including public outreach to the neighborhood.